Excellent book for those considering doctoral studies

[mattchand]

I have been going through Dr. Peggy Hawley's Being Bright is not Enough: The Unwritten Rules of Doctoral Study, as a required introductory text in a research methods class. I cannot recommend this book highly enough to anyone beginning or considering getting involved in doctoral study, by distance or on-site, and especially in the humanities and the social sciences. It is a short (153pp), remarkably practical volume, discussing both practical issues at every stage in the process, though the focus is really on someone who (in the US system) is soon to complete their coursework.

The author begins by explaining that there is "An ABD ('All But Dissertation') behind each Ph.D;" that is, someone who completed their coursework, but was unable to finish and successfully defend a dissertation. It is aimed at helping the reader avoid joining the ranks of "permanent ABD's." It is a fairly entertaining as well as informative read.

Peace,

Matt

[Jonathan Whatley]

This is a great and useful tip. Thank you!

Jonathan, who picks up every book on finishing your doctorate he ever finds at used book sales, and always has to wonder how the previous owners came out...

[uncle janko]

Thanks, Matt! This sounds really good (love the humanities focus).

(I have an earlier post on such books somewhere, too.)